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Prostatectomy surgeons

Posted , 5 users are following.

ES28567
ES28567

Is there a website or other way to find the best surgeons that perform a prostatectomy? I have looked at all my options and this is most likely going to be the best course of action for my condition? I'm so depressed.

0 likes, 19 replies

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  • mosski
    mosski ES28567

    Posted

    Yes, it is not an easy decision.  Always good to get second, or even third and fourth, opinions.  I recommend you see an oncologist -- he has no vested interest in pushing you toward surgery or radiation.

    I faced similar situation -- a lower PSA (8-9), 8 of 12 biopsy samples showed cancer, Gleason of all six and one a possible 7, and possible seminal invasion.  I was offered entrance into a Draconian drug trial followed by surgery.  Yet another opinion suggested that I do NOT participate in the trial.

    I chose Dr. Francis McGovern (see my first post). Open surgery, no incontinence whatsoever -- not sure why, but I was in very good shape, did Kegels before surgery, prostate only enlarged slightly and had a damn good surgeon.  The rectile issues are challenging, but there has been some progress.

    Good luck!

  • ES28567
    ES28567

    Posted

    Thank everyone for your comments and input. I'm trying not to do radiation or surgery if I can help it. Unfortunately because of the large size which causes urinary issues and the fact that the cancer is close or in the seminal duct, I don't think active surveillance would be a wise choice. I'm looking at Focal laser ablation and a procedure called ProstRcision. There is only one place that does this ProstRcision procedure. Any thought on these 2 procedures or other alternative?

    • barney34567
      barney34567 ES28567

      Posted

      FLA is a new technique. Not many urologists have a lot of experience in it. As I understand, its biggest advantages are that it is

      painless

      takes about one hour

      following FLA incontinence is uncommon and

      a high degree of sexual function is maintained after undergoing it.

      Again as I understand it, the main disadvantage are that it is new and requires a 3T MRI as part of the process. This " robs" urologists of total control over the the patient by introducing the radiologist as a key service provider. Also I hear that it is suitable for low to intermediate cancers and not high risk.

    • barney34567
      barney34567 ES28567

      Posted

      ProstRcision is similar but not exactly the same as brachytherapy.

      It involves more radiation than brachytherapy, the latter involves seeds being implanted into the prostate.

      Both are aimed at patients with Gleason of 7 or less.

      both are less invasive than surgery with less expected side effects.

      I suggest you research the differences between the two to determine which is better for you. In particular, find a facility that does a lot of such therapies or one that has published its results in a respected journal.

       

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